Build quality and optical performance are top-notch; feels perfectly balanced on a D800E.

Cons:

Not necessarily a negative, but I would have preferred the focus ring to be metal too; I'm unsure of the durability of the rubber surface.

A very demanding lens to focus when wide open and close to infinity, but any less than sharp photos are user error. All in all, it's a joy to use. I must be in minority, but prefer the build quality of the other MF Zeiss lenses - this isn't taking anything away from the Otus, as it's phenomenally built too.

Nov 15, 2013

Jorge TorralbaOfflineBuy and Sell: On

Registered: May 16, 2007Location: United StatesPosts: 2559

Review Date: Nov 14, 2013

Recommend? yes |
Price paid: $3,990.00
| Rating: 10

Pros:

Bokeh rendering is just to die for. Color and contrast is amazing. Sharpness wide open is unmatched by any other lens I have ever had the pleasure of shooting with.

Cons:

Price. However, it is still less than half the price of Leica's best glass and is equal if not better. Size. Although the size does not bother me, it may be a problem for those use to a conventional 50mm lens which is much smaller and lighter.

This is not much of a review since I have only had the ens for 36 hours. But fro my short experience so far, this is by far the best ens I have ever used. Period! And my "Period" is the truth. The build quality is superb, smooth focus and very easy to focus as well. Color, contrast, sharpness and bokeh are superb on the few snap shots I did around the house. Tomorrow I will scan and post some film shots of real world subjects rather than the usual door knobs or kitchen knife one tends to shoot when they can't wait till the next day.

The lens is big but does not feel big. It's about the size of the old Nikon 17-35mm 2.8. However it does not feel big. Focusing is quite easily done with the slightest effort.

I have a feeling the rubber grip will show scuff marks quickly. besides that, it's to soon for me to give a comprehensive review yet. But, I will in the near future.